Daffan says before making any donation, do your research and call the organization directly, “Go with an organization that you trust and that has a proven track record when it comes to assisting disaster victims.”

Forrester says food and clothing donations can often go to waste or cause more work for volunteers, “We call the donations die of disaster the second side of disaster/Well-meaning people start to collect items that may have been put out there on social media, without knowing that we already got those resources en route or in play.”

If you want to help with efforts on the ground, VOAD recommends waiting before heading to Texas. VOAD says an influx of volunteers from across the country could eat up valuable resources that victims and local volunteers need.

“We look at this as a long term event. This is a marathon. We’ll be working in Texas for the next 12-15 years from our early estimates. You’ll have an opportunity to serve,” said Forrester.

He urges people to train with your local VOAD affiliate, so you’ll be ready if disaster ever strikes your hometown.